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Beloved TV legend Dick Clark was just a teen when he began his career in radio and TV. Take a look back at his life, from hosting "American Bandstand" to presiding over the annual New Year's Eve festivities in Times Square. Bruce Hall reports for NBC News. (Published Thursday, April 19, 2012)

Celebrities from the world of music, media and politics took to Twitter in droves to pay tribute to Dick Clark, who died Wednesday of a heart attack at age 82.

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of my dear friend Dick Clark. He has truly been one of the greatest influences in my life," tweeted Ryan Seacrest. "My thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Dick Clark 1929 - 2012

The "American Idol" host had worked closely with Clark on "New Year's Rockin' Eve." Seacrest told The Los Angeles Times after his death that he had "idolized him from the start" and was "graced early on in my career with his generous advice and counsel."

Later Wednesday, Seacrest honored Clark on "Idol" by saying, "without Dick, a show like this would not exist."

Madonna led her website Wednesday with a video clip of her 1984 appearance on his show where she talked about wanting to "rule the world."

News of Clark's death also prompted a reaction from the White House. President Barack Obama said in a statement that he and first lady Michelle Obama were "saddened to hear about the passing of Dick Clark."

"With 'American Bandstand,' he introduced decades' worth of viewers to the music of our times," Obama said. "He reshaped the television landscape forever as a creative and innovative producer. And, of course, for 40 years, we welcomed him into our homes to ring in the New Year."

"But more important than his groundbreaking achievements was the way he made us feel — as young and vibrant and optimistic as he was. As we say a final 'so long' to Dick Clark, America's oldest teenager, our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends — which number far more than he knew,"

Here’s what other musicians and media stars said about the passing of the broadcasting legend:

First Don Cornelius, now Dick Clark. Two true broadcasting pioneers and giants, both gone.” --Al Roker

REST IN PEACE to the DICK CLARK!! U were pioneer n a good man!! Thank u sir –Snoop Dogg

Dick Clark was a great guy and one of the first people to play my records. He will be missed. -- Tony Bennett

Rest in Peace my good friend Dick Clark. A pioneer who's mark on American culture will be felt forever. -- Quincy Jones

Dick Clark was such an institution and inspiration. Not ashamed to say I loved American bandstand when I was a kid! -- Katie Couric

Dick Clark was a great friend, true legend, & a master journalist. Nobody did what he did better. It was a pleasure to be in his company. – Larry King

I will always cherish the personal time we had together. I am indebted to Dick Clark and his legacy. My heart goes out to his family. -- Carson Daly

Farewell to one of my all time idols Dick Clark- genius pioneer in music/television and just a great guy! You will be missed! – Lance Bass

Rest in peace Mr. Dick Clark. Thank you for new years and new years of class, positivity & entertainment. – Dane Cook

Clark’s death also prompted these outpourings of tributes from Hollywood to Washington:

RIP dick Clark. You were amazing to work with. U will be missed. Xxxoo --Jenny McCarthy

R.I.P. Dick Clark. New Years Eve will never be the same. --David Boreanaz

For ever, Dick Clark... So long. --Neil Patrick Harris

My heart goes out to Dick Clark's family and loved ones.... we lost a legend.. #RIPDickClark --Denise Richards

RIP Dick Clark - thanks for the many years of entertainment –John McCain

#RIP Dick Clark. Always so nice Employed me many times. I will miss you Dick. Prayers to Kari and the family #Legend --Holly Robinson Peete

Dick Clark represents the passing of an era. Before American Idol, MTV, there was Clark. We lost Clark and Cornelius in the same year. --Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson

Today, we mourn the passing of Dick Clark, an American icon and a true New Yorker who was born in Mount Vernon, graduated from Syracuse University, and began his legendary career in Utica. Dick Clark became a household name as host of the iconic show American Bandstand, and for more than three decades the world joined him to usher in the New Year from New York City’s Times Square. We will remember his energy, youthful spirit, and passion for his work. --New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo